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Maybe it was the cute puppy face in the pet store or the “Adopt A Pet” commercials on television that convinced you a puppy would be a perfect pet. And, as a matter of fact, the new puppy could entertain the children while you read that book you’ve been desperately looking forward too. So, you think you have it figured out? Maybe you should think about this decision more carefully. Although puppies are loveable, huggable, and most definitely cute, they may not be the best pets around young children.
Between 1990 and 1995, over 300 children visited the emergency room because of dog bites. It is estimated that over one million people suffer from animal bites every year in which dog bites account for at least 80 to 90 percent of these injuries.
Children under the age of 5 are most likely at risk of a dog bite. And most bites occur from dogs that are usually familiar to the child. Is it jealously or anger that causes the dog to bite? No. Most of the time, dogs are motivated by either pain, fear or anxiety. It may feel threatened and growl or snap. A dog will bite if it feels interrogated, like when a child is trying to take away its toy or food. Dog bites frequently occur when a child is attempting to show affection by hugging or kissing the dog. It may feel as though the child is trying to confine or take control and it becomes aggressive. The most common place for a dog bite on a child is usually on the face or the neck because of their height in relation to the dog.
Although dog bites can’t always be prevented, they can be minimized with the help of a few simple tips.
1. Never leave your child unattended with any dog.
2. Recognize an angry dog. Any signs such as barking, growling, snarling with teeth showing, ears laid flat, legs stiff, tail up and hair standing up on its back are all warning signs. If you approach a dog that looks this way – slowly walk away sideways, commanding “No.” Always act like you are the boss. Never run, scream or stare the dog in the eyes.
3. Do not approach a sleeping dog. This sudden approach may startle the dog, causing it to bite.
4. Always touch and pet dogs gently.
5. Ask an adult before petting an unfamiliar dog.
6. Do not pet or restrain any dog that is trying to get away from you.
7. Do not rough house or wrestle with a dog – this teaches them aggressiveness.
8. Do not tease a dog in any way.
9. Teach children not to put their fingers or face near a dog’s mouth.
10. Do not pull a dog’s ears or tail.
Furthermore, if you are looking for a dog as a family pet, educate yourself to choose the dog that is best fit for your family situation. In any case, take into consideration these two things before choosing the new family pet:
1. Dogs that have been trained to be aggressive or to work as guard dogs may be dangerous to children
2. Small dogs are easily hurt if dropped or squeezed and tend to nip or bite; therefore, they may not be good for a toddler.
In conclusion, most dogs are genuinely friendly, however, careful consideration should be given before a dog is brought home to a new family. Also, remember, it takes time for a dog to adapt to a new family and if you have small children, it’s best to introduce them slowly. Most dogs adjust to children easily and without complications, however, you have to be observant of your dog’s behavior and take precautions to introduce dog and child to each other. Following this simple advice, you should be able to avoid most accidents and incidents.
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